NZTA is encouraging people driving on the West Coast this weekend to be ready for heavy rain from Friday midnight through to Sunday. 

Monday 29 November is Westland Anniversary Day so more people will be travelling around the West Coast this weekend. 

MetService has put an orange heavy rain warning over much of the West Coast (Fiordland north) for this weekend, with up to 400mm of rain in some places. Saturday could be very wet.

NZTA Journey Manager Tresca Forrester is encouraging motorists to check the forecast before heading out and the traffic and travel map.

“People should be ready for stormy weather across the Coast from South Westland north and on the alpine passes. Heavy rain can reduce visibility for drivers so keep your lights on if that is the case.”

“Waka Kotahi crews are prepared and ready to respond in the event of slips and localised flooding.”